Summary
Objectives: To retrospectively evaluate the outcome of internal fixation of trauma-related pelvic
floor fractures using a ventral abdominal approach in cats.
Methods: Clinical examination and radio-graphic findings at presentation, after surgery, and
at follow-up were assessed. Information gathered included concurrent injuries, surgical
technique used, lameness and pain scores, and radiographic signs of implant stability.
Results: Ten European shorthair cats were included in the study. Pelvic floor fractures were
stabilised using locking plates in nine cats, and symphyseal separation was fixated
using hemicerclage wire in one cat. Additional procedures included reduction of sacroiliac
luxation in nine cats with positional screws placed in six cats, and plate stabilization
of sacral fractures in one cat.
All cats were able to walk within five days of surgery. No orthopaedic or neurological
deficits were observed in seven cats at follow-up. Neurological deficits were observed
in one cat. Signs of pain at implant sites due to inadequate surgical technique were
noted in two cats. Anatomical reduction of the pelvic floor was achieved in eight
cats.
Clinical significance: Stabilization of the pelvic floor and repair of sacroiliac luxation and other injuries
by a ventral abdominal approach in cats led to an overall successful outcome. Fixation
of the pelvic floor in cats with intact acetabular and ilial bones should be considered
in patients with multiple pelvic fractures in combination with sacroiliac joint luxation
or sacral fracture, pelvic canal narrowing, traumatic abdominal hernia, and other
abdominal injuries.
Keywords
Pelvic floor fracture - internal fixation - ventral approach - cat
